At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to create engaging learning experiences for young children.
- Company: Join Oaktree Nursery, rated Outstanding by Ofsted and part of the Early Years Alliance.
- Benefits: 100% childcare discount, extensive training, generous leave, and mental health support.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for career progression and a supportive workplace culture.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your career in early years education.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification and experience in early education required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We have a fantastic opportunity for a Lead Early Years Educator to join our team at Oaktree Nursery in Devon. Rated Outstanding by Ofsted and 10 on Day Nurseries, we are looking for a skilled lead early years educator who will be a role model and enable the team to deliver high quality inclusive early years education and care.
What we offer:
- 100% discount on childcare and early education places (applicable to staff working in our early years settings)
- Extensive training and career progression planning, including access to our Learning Management System (LMS)
- A generous workplace pension scheme
- 25 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays, with additional annual leave for long service
- Birthday leave so you can have a day off for your birthday dedicated to you and your well being
- Enhanced sickness pay and paid bereavement leave
- A Recruitment Referral Payment Scheme, giving you an introductory payment of up to £300 if someone you have referred to the Alliance takes up a role in the charity
- Access to our Employee Assistant Programme (EAP), which includes 24/7 helpline access, dedicated managers helpline, confidential counselling sessions delivered by accredited specialists, legal, debt and life management advice, discounts, and wellbeing content plus resources
- Savings of up to 25% on O2 Refresh Airtime Plan on any new phone or tablets
- A dedicated mental health First aider to support your mental well being
Job purpose:
As the Lead Early Years Educator, you will:
- Lead a team enabling them to provide creative and engaging learning opportunities for children
- Be a role model for the wider staff team, modelling sensitive and responsive interaction and extending children's learning
- Be a proactive member of the team, providing a safe, stimulating, and inclusive environment
- Support the nursery management team to deliver high-quality care and education in line with the setting's policies and procedures
- Be responsible for curriculum planning within the setting
- Oversee the setting in the absence of the Assistant Manager and Manager
Requirements:
Successful applicants for the Lead Early Years Educator position will need:
- A minimum Level 3 Early Years Education and Childcare qualification or equivalent
- Post-qualification experience in working in early education and childcare
- A sound understanding of child development and children's needs with an ability to plan and implement the curriculum in accordance with the Early Years Foundation Stage, taking into account the Special Educational Needs and Disability Code of Practice, safeguarding procedures and equality and diversity considerations
You will be required to undertake an enhanced DBS check if your current certificate is not subscribed to the update service.
Hours per week: 30
Weeks per year: 52
Interview date: Friday 12th June 2026
Lead Early Years Educator in Ilfracombe employer: Workcircle
Oaktree Nursery in Devon is an outstanding employer, offering a supportive and nurturing work environment for Lead Early Years Educators. With exceptional benefits such as 100% discount on childcare, extensive training opportunities, and a generous leave policy, we prioritise the well-being and professional growth of our team members. Join us to make a meaningful impact in early years education while enjoying a fulfilling career with a dedicated focus on quality and inclusivity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Early Years Educator in Ilfracombe
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the early years education field. Let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities, and who knows? They might just have the inside scoop on openings at places like Oaktree Nursery.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that interview! Research Oaktree Nursery and the Early Years Alliance. Understand their values and how you can contribute as a Lead Early Years Educator. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Bring along examples of your past work or projects that highlight your ability to create engaging learning opportunities. This will help you stand out as a role model for the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Early Years Educator in Ilfracombe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for early years education shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in children's lives and how you can inspire others in the team.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the Lead Early Years Educator role. We love seeing how your background aligns with our values and the specific requirements of the job.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This helps us quickly see why you’d be a great fit for our team!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Workcircle
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the Early Years Foundation Stage and the latest trends in early years education. Being able to discuss child development theories and how they apply to your teaching will show that you're not just qualified, but passionate about the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Lead Early Years Educator, you'll be guiding a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a group in the past, whether it's through curriculum planning or creating engaging learning opportunities. Highlight your ability to model sensitive interactions and support your colleagues.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you'd handle specific situations, like managing a child's behaviour or adapting activities for children with special educational needs. Think of real-life examples from your experience that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and adaptability.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few questions ready about the nursery's approach to inclusive education or how they support staff development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the nursery is the right fit for you.
